Sleep Well Beast (CD)

The National

Amoeba Review

09/06/2017

The National turn up their guitar amps on their newest record, sounding all sorts of revitalized and harkening back to the vigor of their Alligator-era material. Yes, this is still the The National we’re talking about, and all the trademark elements you've come to expect are solidly in place: U2-sized melodies delivered with Matt Berninger’s sad dad croon, tom-heavy drums that convey BIG emotion, and melancholy piano work providing a sturdy foundation for the brooding soul of these songs. However, Sleep Well Beast incorporates fresh sounds into the band’s winning formula, including electronic textures and distorted guitar leads. For a band that has perfected their signature style, Sleep Well Beast is at its best when The National pushes outside of their comfort zone.